Midi Cruising the Peaceful Canal du Midi

Exploring the Charming Villages Along the Canal

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" – Lao Tzu

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Today’s Newsletter Presented By

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Canal du midi France Occitanic Toulouse nature beautiful - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:

• Midi Cruising the Peaceful Canal du Midi

• Experience: - Hop on and off in Paris

• Around The Web: Castle and Ramparts of Carcassonne, The Olive Legacy of Languedoc; Eat Like You Belong and more

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: In the Puimoisson region on the Plateau de Valensole

• Mange: Salted Caramel the French Way – A Taste of Our New Course

• Xtra: CAMARGUE NATURAL PARK - FRANCE

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Midi Cruising the Peaceful Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is one of France’s greatest engineering feats, built in the 17th century to connect the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. It was the vision of Pierre-Paul Riquet, who oversaw its construction over 12 years with more than 12,000 workers. Stretching 150 miles and containing 328 structures, including locks, aqueducts and tunnels, the canal became vital for trade and military movement. Along its banks lie picturesque towns like Castelnaudary, known for its cassoulet, and Bram, with its circular medieval layout and tragic Cathar history. Toulouse, the canal’s starting point, is a lively university city, while Carcassonne offers a stunning medieval fortress experience. The canal is also famed for its tree-lined banks, once shaded by thousands of plane trees, many of which are now being replaced due to disease. Today, the Canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite for leisure cruising. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat trips, local cuisine, and historic landmarks along the route. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, engineering, and French heritage

Boats are lined along the canal in Toulouse, showcasing the vibrant waterfront - Shutterstock

Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise

Make sightseeing in the French capital easy with a Big Bus tour of Paris. Enjoy the convenience of hop-on hop-off access at any stop along the route, and soak in the views from an open-top, double-decker bus. See sights like the Louvre Museum, Moulin Rouge cabaret club, and the iconic Eiffel Tower as you listen to informative audio-commentary, available in various languages.

Read more about Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise -

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Around The Web

Castle and Ramparts of Carcassonne

The medieval citadel of Carcassonne, with its imposing fortifications, offers a glimpse into 2,600 years of history, from Roman times to medieval defences. Visitors can explore ramparts, the Château Comtal, and more

The Olive Legacy of Languedoc

L’Oulibo, the largest Lucques olive producer in Languedoc, offers a fascinating journey into the world of olive trees. Visit for a guided tour to learn about olive cultivation, history, and enjoy tastings of different olive oils

A Unique Spot in Capestang

Brasserie Oppidum offers a cosy setting where you can enjoy original recipes, 100% organic artisanal beers, and a selection of wines and gourmet products in its shop. It’s the perfect place to relax, taste, and shop all in one

A Modern Square in the Centre of Toulouse

Named after Charles de Gaulle, the founder of France’s 5th Republic and its first president (1959 to 1969), this modern square is a great place to take a break from shopping and exploring the city

A Pilgrim’s Journey Through History

Built between the 11th and 13th centuries in honour of Saint Saturnin, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning Romanesque sculpture, including the Miègeville door. A must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts visiting Toulouse

Eat Like You Belong

France isn’t just a country—it’s a table set for every taste. From its alpine cheeses to sun-ripened tomatoes in Provence, every region offers its own menu of beloved recipes shaped by land, climate, and centuries of tradition. For travellers who believe that culture begins on the plate, this culinary journey will take you beyond Paris bistros to the heart of French food heritage. It’s not just about eating—it’s about understanding why each dish belongs where it does, and who still cooks it the old way.

We invite you on a regional road trip across France—one dish at a time. Each stop pairs iconic recipes with the towns and markets where they were born. Learn what to eat, where to try it, how to pronounce it like a local, and why it matters. This is France told through flavour, where every bite has a story. Come hungry—and bring your curiosity on this culinary road trip through France’s regional flavours

French camembert cheese baked in the oven with rosemary sprigs, garlic cloves, and bay leaves served with croutons - Shutterstock

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

From Social Media

In the Puimoisson region on the Plateau de Valensole, the landscape is full of bright purple lavender fields stretching as far as the eye can see

Mange

Salted Caramel the French Way – A Taste of Our New Course

Xtra

Ultimate Guide to Cruising the Canal du Midi with Le Boat: Everything You Need to Know

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